10. Metro Exodus
The Metro series is a fantastic collection of games and Metro Exodus is the third and best of them. Set in a post-apocalyptic Moscow, the first two games are spent in underground tunnels believing the surface world to be uninhabitable. Metro Exodus takes us to the surface - and what a beautiful surface it is. Gorgeous textures and lighting craft a post-apocalyptic experience that feels like a gourmet Fallout - crafted, concise and curated to the highest quality.
9. Horizon Zero Dawn
I can’t overstate how much I love the visual design of Horizon: Zero Dawn. The aesthetic of primitive meets futuristic works so fantastically well, and the graphics are so high quality that you can recognise the machine parts that primitive villagers have scavenged and weaved into their clothes - and probably guess which machine they came from. Great story, amazing combat, original concept - you need this game.
8. God of War
2018’s God of War is already widely regarded as one of the best gaming experiences available today. To see the talent and attention to detail that it took to create a game of such prestige, you need to look no further than the visual design. From the stunning landscapes, tombs and costumes to every hair in Kratos’ beard; from the glistening water to the combat particle effects. Every visual is perfected.
7. Red Dead Redemption 2
This long, long-awaited sequel to Red Dead Redemption is one of the most beautiful games available on the PS4. The towns, animals, rivers, mountains - you’ll often find yourself avoiding fast travel just to enjoy the sights. If you can tear yourself out of Photo Mode long enough, you’ve got a good 70 hours of story gameplay to enjoy without even counting the online mode or the side missions. A shining example of the heights that modern game production has reached.
6. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
By far the most intricate sandbox world yet created by the Assassin’s Creed team, this representation of ancient Greece is honoured by absolutely stunning graphics. From the highest mountains to the spray of the sea to your sails filling with the ocean breeze, everything is simply gorgeous. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey puts you in control of mercenary Alexios or Kassandra, setting out on a mission steeped in mythology to learn the secrets of your heritage.
5. Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice
Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice was developed by a team of around 20 people from independent studio Ninja Theory. When you’ve played the game and experienced the staggering detail of the graphics, the fact it was produced by such a small team becomes completely mind-bending. Beautiful graphics are combined with haunting lighting and visual design to create a mood of fear and dread that stays with you long after you complete Senua’s story. An unmissable title.
4. Alien: Isolation
There’s true genius behind the visual style of Alien: Isolation. It’s not necessarily about photorealism, although it does do a pretty great job of that. No, the real beauty comes from the perfect recreation of the ‘future in the eyes of the past’ aesthetic that makes it feel so much like the original Alien film. Combine this with a brilliant soundtrack and terrifying stealth-based gameplay, you’re really onto a winner.
3. Marvel’s Spider-Man
Who’d have thunk that a superhero tie-in game would be one of the best-looking games of this generation? Not just the initial look either - everything from animation to mocap to combat particles is so gorgeously polished that it’s the absolute icing on the cake. If you haven’t played this game yet, you’re truly missing out. It’s like a virtual tour of New York - you’ll find yourself swinging onto a nearby rooftop to stop and take stock of it all.
2. The Last of Us Part 2
The Last of Us is a game that needs no introduction. Naughty Dog’s post-apocalyptic action-adventure title wowed both fans and critics with its compelling characters and nuanced storytelling. Set 7 years after its predecessor, The Last of Us Part 2 picks up Joel and Ellie’s story. With one of the most shocking stories ever told in gaming, more of the same competent gameplay and the best-looking visuals from this console generation, The Last of Us Part 2 is a piece of art that everyone should experience.
1. Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut
For those of you unfamiliar with Ghost of Tsushima - you play as Jin Sakai, a samurai warrior and sole remaining member of his clan. To avenge them, he must toe the line between remaining true to his samurai principles, and using the guerilla tactics he learns throughout the game to secure a dishonourable advantage over opponents. Visually stunning, mechanically tight and with an incredible story, this game is packed with action from start to finish.
